Atlanta, Ga. – Bright sunshine is giving way to building clouds across north Georgia, and the quiet start to the day won’t last. As temperatures climb toward the lower 90s, the combination of intense humidity and developing thunderstorms could quickly change outdoor plans and slow travel across metro Atlanta by late afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Peachtree City, scattered thunderstorms are expected to develop after 3 p.m., with a 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms increasing during the afternoon and evening. High temperatures will reach around 91 degrees, while the heat index could climb as high as 100 degrees, making it feel significantly hotter than the thermometer suggests.
The greatest concern will be storms capable of producing frequent lightning, gusty winds, localized heavy rainfall, and isolated flooding, especially in poor drainage areas. While widespread severe weather is not expected, the National Weather Service’s Hazardous Weather Outlook notes that stronger storms could produce locally damaging wind gusts and brief flooding. An isolated tornado cannot be ruled out in stronger summer thunderstorms, but the primary hazards remain wind, lightning and heavy rain.
Drivers along Interstates 20, 75, 85 and 285 should expect changing conditions during the afternoon commute. Wet pavement, reduced visibility and brief ponding on roadways could slow traffic. If thunder roars, head indoors and delay outdoor recreation until storms pass.
The weather remains warm through early next week. Sunday reaches 93 degrees with another chance for afternoon thunderstorms. Monday and Tuesday continue the familiar summer pattern, with highs near 92 degrees and scattered afternoon storms developing after the hottest part of the day.
The Climate Prediction Center continues to indicate above-normal temperatures across much of the Southeast during the 6-to-10-day outlook, meaning the summer heat is likely to persist well into next week.
Stay weather-aware this afternoon, especially if you have outdoor plans or travel scheduled. Have you noticed storm clouds building in your neighborhood? Let us know what conditions you’re seeing.
Five-Day Forecast for Atlanta, Georgia
- Sunday: Sunny, then a 30% chance of afternoon thunderstorms. High 93°F, low 74°F.
- Monday: Sunny, then a 20% chance of afternoon thunderstorms. High 92°F, low 75°F.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, then a 20% chance of afternoon thunderstorms. High 92°F, low 76°F.
- Wednesday: 40% chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms. High 92°F, low 72°F.
- Thursday: 20% chance of showers. Mostly sunny with a high near 90°F, continuing a warm pattern into late next week.
